Upgrading to a new computer always has pros and cons. The obvious pros include a faster system, new components and better compatibility with newer software. Some of the cons include the need to re-install much of the software that you used on your old computer, the need to customize the settings to your specific requirements and the need to transfer all of your files from your old computer. The biggest con is that you can't transfer the existing operating system to your new computer. When an operating system is installed, it configures itself for your computer hardware and if the hard drive containing your operating system is transferred, the operating system will not recognize the new hardware. Your new computer may not recognize the operating system from your old computer, but fortunately, you can install your old hard drive as a secondary drive in your new computer, and have quick and easy access to all of your old files.

Shut down both computers, and disconnect all cords and cables from the back of the towers.

Move both towers to a well-lit flat surface. If possible, move the towers to a room without carpeting. This will greatly reduce the risk of you unintentionally building up a static charge that could damage your computer components.

Remove the side access panels from each tower, and set them aside.

Connect the electrostatic grounding strap to your wrist, and clip the other end to one of the tower frames.

Disconnect the power supply and interface cable from the back of your old computer's hard drive.

Pull the old hard drive from the hard drive bay. For the majority of current Dell computer models, press the tabs on each side of the hard drive, and lift the drive out of the bay. Some older Dell models require the removal of the entire hard drive bay enclosure. For those models, remove the screw located in the back of the enclosure, then remove the second screw located on the underside of the tower beneath the drive.

Adjust the jumpers on the back of the hard drive to set the drive to "Slave" mode. Refer to the diagram on the hard drive for the proper jumper positions.

Insert the slave drive into the secondary hard drive bay on your new computer.

Connect the power supply and interface cable to the back of the slave drive.

Return the side access panel to your new computer, and reconnect all cables and cords. Your new hard drive will automatically be recognized the next time you start your computer.

Things Needed

Phillips screwdriver

Electrostatic grounding strap

About the Author

Ryan Maxwell began his professional freelance writing career in 2009. He is a former U.S. Army military police officer, as well as a published poet and photographer. While attending Finlandia University, Maxwell majored in criminal justice with a minor in English studies. Ryan is also very skilled in computer maintenance, upgrade and repair with almost 20 years of experience.